Begonia rex 'Inca Night'

Begonia ‘Inca Night’ is a spectacular foliage houseplant admired for its dramatic, almost black leaves with rich burgundy-red undertones. Its beautifully textured foliage features a subtle metallic sheen, creating a striking contrast between the dark leaf centres and vibrant red edges. With its compact, bushy growth habit and extraordinary colouring, this Rex Begonia makes a fantastic statement plant for shelves, plant stands and indoor displays.

Scientific Name
Begonia ‘Inca Night’ (Rex Begonia hybrid)

Common Name(s)
Inca Night Begonia, Rex Begonia, Painted-Leaf Begonia

Origin
A cultivated Rex Begonia hybrid developed for its ornamental foliage. Rex Begonias originate from species native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, particularly northeastern India and surrounding areas.

Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Good light will help maintain its deep burgundy and almost black colouring, but avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves. An east-facing window or a position slightly back from a bright south or west-facing window is ideal.

Water
Keep the soil lightly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top centimetre or two of compost to dry between waterings, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Avoid allowing the plant to dry out completely for prolonged periods. Reduce watering slightly during autumn and winter.

Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally around 50–70%. Higher humidity helps prevent crispy leaf edges, but good airflow is essential. Avoid misting the foliage directly, as water sitting on the leaves can encourage fungal problems.

Soil
Use a light, airy and well-draining houseplant mix. A combination of peat-free compost, perlite and fine orchid bark works well, allowing the roots to retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.

Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–25°C. Protect from cold draughts, sudden temperature changes and prolonged temperatures below 15°C.

Pet-safe
No. Begonias contain soluble calcium oxalates and are toxic if ingested by cats and dogs, particularly the underground parts of the plant. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
Rex Begonias appreciate consistent conditions, so avoid moving your ‘Inca Night’ around too frequently. Give it plenty of bright, indirect light, maintain moderate humidity and water carefully to keep the foliage looking its best.

Avoid splashing water onto the leaves when watering, and remove any damaged or dying foliage to maintain good airflow around the plant.

Extras
‘Inca Night’ naturally forms a compact, bushy plant with richly coloured foliage. Its leaves can appear almost black in certain lighting, while brighter indirect light reveals their beautiful burgundy-red tones.

Mature plants may occasionally produce small clusters of pale pink or white flowers, although it is primarily grown for its extraordinary leaves.

Did You Know?
Rex Begonias are sometimes called Painted-Leaf Begonias because of the incredible range of colours, patterns and textures found across their foliage.

‘Inca Night’ is particularly admired for its dramatic dark colouring, which is created by natural pigments in the leaves. These pigments produce the rich red and purple tones that give the plant its almost black appearance.